Disney's Grand Californian Hotel & Spa to be Reimagined

Disney's Grand Californian Hotel & Spa in Disneyland will be reimagined in what is being called the most extensive refurbishment since the resort opened. Walt Disney Imagineering has developed a plan that will modernize all the guest rooms, pool areas, and the concierge-level Craftsman Club as well as new furniture inside the lobby. The reimagining should be completed by the end of this year.

Here's some details on the new guest rooms released by Disney today:

Guest rooms will be completely redesigned to create a fresh sense of luxury. Every single element will be new—from the floors and walls to the furnishings, beddings and linens as well as upgraded bathrooms. Upon entry, you’ll notice hardwood flooring transition into soft, bright-toned carpeting. The room decor is a contemporary take on the Arts & Crafts style featuring all-new furniture made of natural oak, specially designed for each room, as well as California-inspired artwork created by artists and Imagineers, including beautiful headboard walls with wood inlay designs featuring orange trees and Chip ‘n Dale! Guests with a sharp eye will catch other uniquely Disney details throughout these newly refreshed rooms.

With construction well under way the first phase of the re-imagination of the Grand Californian will be open to guests shortly. As mentioned above the multi-phase roll-out will be completed by the end of 2017.

Source: Disney Parks Blog

Paddlefish to Open February 4; Disneyland Debuts Private Dining Experience in Walt's Apartment

Paddlefish to Open February 4 at Disney Springs:

Paddlefish, formerly Fulton's Crab House, will open in Disney Springs next Saturday February 4, 2017. Reservations are not yet open. Here is the story of the restaurant:

Paddlefish is an iconic restaurant, bar and special events venue located aboard a reimagined, modern and luxurious steamboat. Docked on the shores of Lake Buena Vista, Paddlefish is the only restaurant in Disney Springs to offer rooftop-level, waterfront seating. We are proud to celebrate and share the fresh seafood catches of our nation’s robust and abundant waters. Our nets and rods are cast wide from the gulf to the east and west coasts to capture the tastiest seafood we can serve to our guests. Our adventurous and well-traveled vessel has influenced our menu selections, led by Executive Chef Mark Boor. At Paddlefish, we are passionate about authenticity, quality and providing our guests a unique dining experience. Our culinary “show” will engage your appetite and heighten your anticipation as we boil, steam, grill, and roast your meal.

Paddlefish will be open everyday from 11:30 A.M. to 11 P.M.

Disneyland Debuts Private Dining Experience in Walt's Apartment:

Introducing 21 Royal, a private dining experience inside Walt's Apartment, available to just one single party of 12 each night. Guests can book the experience for the price of $15,000 which includes tax, gratuity, valet, and admission to the park. Guests will begin the experience by being greeted by specially trained guides at Disneyland's Grand Californian and then leading them over to 21 Royal Street, the most exclusive address in the park which is what was originally to be envisioned as Walt Disney's apartment above New Orleans Square. 

Here are some details:

In keeping with its unique location, discreetly perched above Royal Street in New Orleans Square (upstairs from the famed Pirates of the Caribbean attraction), 21 Royal is decorated in the Empire style made popular in 19th century New Orleans.
Today, when you host your special evening at 21 Royal, you add your own chapter to the residence’s storied history and carry forth the spirit of Walt and Lillian’s enduring vision of an exceptionally enchanted experience.
On the evening of your 21 Royal experience, your guests will arrive at the majestic Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa, where they will be greeted by the hotel’s valets. Once your entire party has assembled, they will be given a VIP escort to the site of the evening’s festivities.
Legendary Disney service is on display from the moment your guests are welcomed by the 21 Royal staff. First, signature cocktails are served by professional butlers in the salon, then everyone is invited out to the patio for a casual reception. You and your guests will also have time to explore the different rooms—and discover some of their more magical features.
Then it’s time for dinner. You and your guests take your seats around a lavish table covered in white linens, fresh flowers and set with gold-plated dinnerware and fine crystal. This is when the evening’s adventure really begins—as a fascinating tale unfolds told through fine food and drink.
In true Disney fashion, you can end your evening with a grand finale—dessert on the private balcony, where you and your guests are treated to a spectacular view of the Rivers of America, and on certain nights, prime viewing of the park’s nighttime entertainment.

For more details on this truly exclusive dining experience at 21 Royal visit, 21royaldisneyland.com.